ABGW - Amazing, Brilliant, Gorgeous, Wonderful

Cheryl Paris

 From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. ABGW  stands for Amazing, Brilliant, Gorgeous, Wonderful. ABGW helps women who feel “not quite happy” in a life that looks good on paper move from survival mode to self-led strength, with practical tools, gentle humour, and zero fluff.  ABGW is Amazing, Brilliant, Gorgeous, Wonderful: A Trauma-Aware Project by Cheryl Paris. I work with women who feel misaligned in a life that’s “fine” but not fulfilling. Through conversations, coaching prompts, and small doable practices, I help you move from constant coping to steady, self-led living. Gentle where it matters, firm where it counts, always respectful of your pace. The names in shared stories have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals. Experiences are drawn from real events and are offered for reflection and education, not as medical or psychological advice. If you feel distressed, step away and seek appropriate support. Safety first. More information: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers

  1. 1H AGO

    The Silent Signals: Unlocking the Wisdom of Your Body Language

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by text - let us know what you think of this episode. Welcome back to another insightful episode of ABGW, where we create a nurturing space for those seeking clarity amidst the chaos of life. I’m Cheryl, your guide on this journey of self-discovery and awareness. In this episode, we delve into the art of body language and the unspoken signals that reveal so much about our emotional states. Have you ever entered a room and immediately sensed the atmosphere before a word was spoken?  That’s your intuition picking up on the subtle cues that our bodies emit. We explore the significance of recognising our own body signals, from crossed arms indicating defensiveness to open postures that invite connection and curiosity. The beauty lies in becoming aware of these messages, allowing us to reclaim control over our interactions and emotional responses. Today’s gentle invitation is to observe not just the words spoken by others but the emotions conveyed through their body language. Pay attention to their eyes, their breath, and the spaces between their words; therein lies the truth of their experience. As we wrap up, remember that if you ever feel overwhelmed or in need of support, it’s perfectly okay to reach out for help. You are not alone on this journey. And don’t forget to check out the accompanying blog post on herguru.uk for further insights. Every small step you take is a step towards a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey and remember, progress is progress, no matter the pace. The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details. Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work - Like us on LinkedIn: Cheryl Paris and Facebook: ABGW Blog. Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    5 min
  2. 1D AGO

    The Unspoken Truth: Tuning into the Language of Your Body

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris. Welcome back to ABGW, where we create a tranquil moment in your day for reflection and insight. I’m Cheryl Paris, your guide on this journey towards understanding the unspoken messages of our bodies. In this enlightening episode, we delve into the subtle yet powerful language of body communication. Have you ever noticed how someone's posture or micro-expressions can convey a wealth of information without a single word being spoken?  Our bodies have been whispering truths about our inner worlds for years, and it’s time to tune in. We challenge the common misconception that communication is merely about words. Instead, we explore the significance of being present and aware of the non-verbal cues that surround us. A crossed arm might signal defensiveness, or perhaps it’s just a response to the chill in the air.  The key lies in understanding that assumptions can cloud our perceptions. Today’s gentle homework invites you to take a moment to observe what your body is expressing. Notice the subtle signals in various situations without judgment or control. This simple act of awareness can lead to profound insights. As we conclude, remember that if you ever feel overwhelmed or in need of support, it’s essential to reach out for professional help. You are not alone in this journey. For further exploration, don’t forget to check out the accompanying blog post on herguru.uk out on Tuesdays. And always remember, every small step you take contributes to a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey; progress is progress, no matter the pace. The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details. Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/ The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details.  Support the show Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn: The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    6 min
  3. 4D AGO

    The Power of Perspective: Seeing Beyond the Familiar

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by text- let us know what you think of this episode Welcome back to ABGW, where we carve out a gentle space in your day for reflection and calm. I’m Cheryl Paris, here to guide you through a soothing five-minute pause to breathe and think differently. In this episode, we challenge the notion that stress and strain are simply part of life. Together, we explore the possibilities that arise when we step back and reassess our circumstances. Have you ever felt trapped by the phrase, “this is just how it is”? It’s time to break free from that mindset. Join me as I share the concept of dissociation, a technique I often utilise with clients to gain a clearer perspective. By stepping back from the situation, we can examine the bigger picture and recognise that what feels inevitable may just be familiarity holding us back. Today’s tiny step for you is to ask yourself one honest question: What would respect look like here? Embrace whatever feelings arise and remember, seeking professional support is not a sign of failure; it’s a wise choice when the weight of the world feels too heavy. As we wrap up, take a moment to notice how you feel now. Even the slightest shift in awareness is significant. Should you find this episode beneficial, I encourage you to explore our other short episodes, designed to gently support you over time. Remember, if at any point you feel overwhelmed or unsafe, it’s important to reach out for professional help. Take care of yourself, and I look forward to connecting with you again. Bye for now. The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn: Cheryl Paris and Facebook: ABGWBlog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/ The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    5 min
  4. 5D AGO

    The Gentle Art of Noticing: Regaining Control in Stressful Times

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by text- let us know what you think of this episode Welcome back to another soothing episode of ABGW, where we carve out a gentle space in your day for reflection and calm. I’m Cheryl Parris, your guide on this journey towards self-awareness and empowerment. In today’s episode, we tackle the pervasive belief that speaking up won’t create change. As we navigate the complexities of life, it’s easy to feel that hope is dwindling, especially when stress lingers on. We delve into the subtle erosion of hope and how it can lead us to a place where we stop expecting change, believing it to be safer. But here’s the truth: even amidst challenging circumstances, we still possess choices. I invite you to explore the difference between feeling trapped by a system and recognising your personal agency. It’s often the smallest choices that can spark significant change, restoring a sense of control in our lives. Today’s tiny step experiment encourages you to identify one thing you can control this week—be it the pace of your day, the timing of a task, or simply allowing yourself to rest. Remember, every small choice contributes to reclaiming your agency. Join me as we gently challenge the notion that high stress is just part of life. If you find today’s message resonates, consider tuning in to the next episode, where we continue to explore these themes together. Before you go, take a moment to check in with yourself. Awareness is the key, and nothing dramatic is required—just notice how you feel. If at any point you feel overwhelmed, please reach out for professional support. Take care of yourself, and I’ll be here again next time. Bye for now! The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers. Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel.  “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris. Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn: Cheryl Paris and Facebook: ABGW Blog. Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/ The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    5 min
  5. 6D AGO

    Breaking the Cycle: Finding Strength in Setting Boundaries

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by text- let us know what you think of this episode Welcome back to ABGW, where we carve out a gentle pause in our busy lives. I’m Cheryl Paris, your guide in this serene space, inviting you to take a moment to breathe, reflect, and think differently. In today’s episode, we explore the intriguing dynamics that unfold when you begin to stop automatically conforming to expectations at work and in various situations. Have you ever felt that awkwardness when you set a new boundary or question the status quo? It’s a common experience, and it can feel surprisingly risky. Instead of asking, “What’s wrong with me?” let’s shift the conversation inward. What does this change actually threaten? Often, it’s not your worth but the convenience of silence and the habits that have relied on your compliance.  Stepping back allows you to observe the patterns at play, rather than personalising them. Today, I encourage you to experiment with a simple boundary phrase: “Let me come back to you on that.” Practise it quietly, whether you’re taking a moment alone or enjoying a break. Remember, no justification or apology is necessary. As we wrap up, take a moment to check in with yourself. Notice any shifts in your feelings, however small. Awareness is a powerful tool, and even the tiniest change can be significant. If you found this episode helpful, be sure to tune in to the next one, where we’ll delve into the feeling of pointlessness that can arise when speaking up. And remember, if things ever feel overwhelming, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Take care of yourself, and I’ll see you next time. Bye for now! The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details.  Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show. From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris. Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn: Cheryl Paris and Facebook: ABGW Blog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/ The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    5 min
  6. JAN 6

    Finding Calm in the Chaos: Embracing Your Inner Struggles

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by text- let us know what you think of this episode Welcome back to ABGW, where we create a gentle space for reflection amidst the chaos of daily life. I’m Cheryl Paris, here to guide you through a brief yet impactful pause in your day. In this soothing episode, we explore the all-too-familiar pressure to cope, especially when it seems everyone else is managing just fine. I’ll share insights on the common tendency to compare our internal struggles to the polished exterior of others, revealing how this perspective can distort our sense of self-worth. Drawing from my experiences, I recount a story of a senior executive who appeared unflappable yet felt overwhelmed inside. This serves as a reminder that outward appearances often mask hidden battles. We’ll discuss the brain's instinctive responses to stress and how they can skew our perception of ourselves and others. Through gentle encouragement, I invite you to step back and recognise the unrealistic demands you may be placing on yourself. It’s perfectly alright to acknowledge that you’re facing challenges; this awareness is a crucial step towards self-compassion. Today, I encourage you to take a tiny action: write down just one thing you’ve managed this week that has drained your energy. This isn’t a sign of weakness, but rather an honest reflection of your experience. As we conclude, take a moment to notice how you’re feeling now. Even the smallest shift in awareness can be significant. Remember, if at any point you feel overwhelmed, seeking professional support is a strong and constructive step forward. Join me next time as we delve deeper into the importance of stepping back and the unexpected stirrings that can arise from it. Until then, take care of yourself, and I’ll be here again soon. Bye for now. The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn: Cheryl Paris and Facebook: ABGW Blog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/ The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    6 min
  7. JAN 5

    Urgency Addiction: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World

    Contact us by whatsapp on +447485622662- let us know what you think of this episode. Contact us by text- let us know what you think of this episode. Welcome back to another soothing episode of ABGW, where we carve out a gentle space for you amidst the chaos of everyday life. I’m Cheryl Parris, here to guide you through a few moments of calm reflection. Today, we’re tackling the phenomenon of urgency addiction—a pervasive feeling that everything around us is an emergency, especially in the workplace. As many of you return to work, it’s common to feel the weight of emails, meetings, and decisions pressing down on you.  I’ll share my own experiences of how our bodies can react to this urgency, often treating it as a threat rather than just information. Join me as we explore the importance of stepping back to gain perspective. Just like viewing a painting from the right distance allows you to see the whole picture, pulling back from the immediate stressors can help clarify your thoughts and feelings.  I’ll guide you through a simple 60-second experiment to help you manage those spikes of stress, encouraging you to pause before responding and regain control. As we navigate this episode together, remember that awareness is key.  Even the smallest shift in how you feel can lead to significant changes over time. And if you ever find yourself feeling overwhelmed, remember that seeking professional help is a strong and constructive step forward. Tomorrow, we’ll delve into the voice that tells you, “I should be coping better,” and why it’s important to challenge that thought. Until then, take a moment to notice your feelings and embrace the journey of self-awareness. The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified healthcare professional for more details.  Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel.  “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris.  Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts!  Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn: Cheryl Paris and Facebook: ABGW Blog.   Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/ The contents of this podcast are for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. If you have a specific health concern or condition, please consult a qualified Healthcare professional for more details. Check out herguru dot uk forward slash disclaimers Support the show From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. “Every step you take, no matter how small, is a step toward a brighter, more balanced future. Trust your journey — progress is progress, no matter the pace.” — Cheryl Paris Subscribe, breathe, and repeat—every little bit counts! Support our work- Like us on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylparis/ and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abgwblog Disclaimer: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers/

    8 min

Trailers

About

 From struggle to strength, with care you can feel. ABGW  stands for Amazing, Brilliant, Gorgeous, Wonderful. ABGW helps women who feel “not quite happy” in a life that looks good on paper move from survival mode to self-led strength, with practical tools, gentle humour, and zero fluff.  ABGW is Amazing, Brilliant, Gorgeous, Wonderful: A Trauma-Aware Project by Cheryl Paris. I work with women who feel misaligned in a life that’s “fine” but not fulfilling. Through conversations, coaching prompts, and small doable practices, I help you move from constant coping to steady, self-led living. Gentle where it matters, firm where it counts, always respectful of your pace. The names in shared stories have been changed to protect the privacy of individuals. Experiences are drawn from real events and are offered for reflection and education, not as medical or psychological advice. If you feel distressed, step away and seek appropriate support. Safety first. More information: https://herguru.uk/disclaimers